18 Best Cities in California in 2024 (By a Local)

People often stay in Los Angeles, San Francisco, or San Diego when they visit the West Coast, but there are many other great cities in California to explore. The state of California is so diverse — the landscapes vary greatly from north to south, east to west. There are fascinating cities in nearly every corner of the state.

As a California local, I’m here to help you choose the best cities to visit for cliffside beaches, jagged mountain peaks, open deserts, and quality shopping. I’ve lived here my whole life and have traveled around my home state more times than I can count.

In this article, I’ll walk you through some of my favorite cities in the Golden State. I’ll also highlight some of the fun things to do in California near these metropolitan areas. Let’s go!

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18 Best California Cities

Los Angeles

The largest city in California with thousands of things to do and something for everyone.

🏠 Population: 3.973 million | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Los Angeles on Booking

Also known as the “City of Angels,” Los Angeles is arguably one of the most famous cities in the world. It’s known for iconic sites like Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and the sandy shores of Santa Monica and Venice Beach.

Although there is no shortage of tourist attractions in LA, some of the most unique parts of the city lie in more residential areas. Los Angeles has seemingly endless neighborhoods, each with a distinct cultural feel — there’s K-town, Little Tokyo, Thai Town, Little Armenia, Little Ethiopia… the list goes on. The city’s urban sprawl has become home to an incredible diversity of communities, cuisines, and cultural heritage.

One of my favorite things to do in Los Angeles is to visit Olvera Street, the “birthplace of Los Angeles.” Today, Olvera Street is a miniature version of Mexico with the best authentic Mexican food, annual events, and handicraft stalls.

Foodies also flock to the Grand Central Market in Los Angeles. Located on Hill Street, you don’t want to miss the famous Egg Slut and Sarita’s Pupusaria restaurants.

San Francisco

The cultural capital of Northern California.

🏠 Population: 808,437 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in San Francisco on Booking

Similar to Los Angeles, you will never run out of things to do in San Francisco. The city rose to fame during the 1800s Gold Rush, and San Francisco is now one of the biggest cosmopolitan cities in California.

With historic Victorian architecture and shiny tech startups, San Francisco is a city that blends old and new. The tourist-friendly neighborhoods of Union Square and Fisherman’s Wharf provide great places to stay near San Francisco’s main attractions. More local haunts include areas like the Mexican-influenced Mission District, the chic waterfront of the Marina District, or the LGBTQ-friendly Castro District.

San Francisco’s claim to fame is the surrounding waterfront. Take a boat ride to Alcatraz Island over the San Francisco Bay, or take a sunset cruise to the Golden Gate Bridge. Ferries depart back to the mainland every half hour, so visit the island’s historic inmate cells at your own pace.

After a full day of exploring the iconic San Francisco sites, relax with a delicious hand-made ice cream cone from the Ghirardelli Chocolate Factory.

Pasadena

A city in Los Angeles County with Victorian-style downtown buildings.

🏠 Population: 134,211 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Pasadena on Booking

Lined with elegant residential homes and neatly trimmed trees, Pasadena offers all the cleanliness and security you hoped you would find in downtown LA.

You must put Pasadena on your California itinerary if you love shopping. Here, you can get lost among the brick buildings and boutique stores in Historic Old Pasadena on Colorado Blvd.

If you’re looking for events to attend in Pasadena, the Rose Bowl is a great entertainment pastime. This 90,000-seat stadium hosts college football games, concerts, and a flea market on the second Sunday of every month.

San Diego

California’s oldest and second largest city that offers incredible surfing and nightlife.

🏠 Population: 1.415 million | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in San Diego on Booking

Considered the oldest city in California, San Diego is the perfect blend of city and beach life. You can surf in the Pacific Ocean in the morning, then put on your best outfit in the evening and hit the town.

San Deigo stands out for its gorgeous beaches and warm weather. With an average of 266 days of sunshine per year, it’s no wonder the city has such a laid-back, easy-breezy attitude. San Diego beaches are also a prime place to see whales as they migrate to and from Mexico.

The city is fairly spread out, so each neighborhood has its own character. Explore bohemian bungalows in Ocean Beach, rowdy beach bars in Pacific Beach, ritzy mansions in La Jolla, or the walkable historic downtown of the Gaslamp Quarter.

While in the area, you must also visit San Diego’s north county. This area is full of bustling beach towns like Oceanside, Carlsbad, and Encinitas, which are all great spots for surfing.

👉 Read Next: San Diego vs Los Angeles

San Bernardino

Home to the San Bernardino National Forest and mountain peaks over 10,000 feet tall.

🏠 Population: 220,328 |📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in San Bernardino on Booking

San Bernardino is one of the biggest counties in California, and makes our list of the top places to live in California. The city lies at the foot of the scenic San Bernardino National Forest, only 1 ½  hours outside of downtown LA. You can find some of the best authentic Mexican food and swap meets in the San Bernardino city center.

San Bernadino’s main activities largely center around outdoor recreation. Besides hiking in the national forest, San Bernardino County is home to the best recreational lakes in Southern California. Big Bear Lake, Lake Arrowhead, and Silverwood Lake are all excellent spots to escape busy city life and enjoy a relaxing day on the water.

Anaheim

Known for its Disneyland theme parks and sports stadiums, this city also has great live music venues and delicious eateries.

🏠 Population: 344,461 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Anaheim on Booking

Anaheim is a heavily populated city in Orange County. It’s home to world-famous theme parks like Disneyland, California Adventure, and Knott’s Berry Farm.

Anaheim is more than just a place to stay near Disneyland, however. The lively city is also home to live music venues, sports stadiums, and delicious restaurants.

Stop by the House of Blues Anaheim to see your favorite live performers and try the delicious Cajun-inspired dishes at the venue. Sports fans must head to the Los Angeles Angels stadium to catch a professional baseball game (and maybe even a flyball). 

👉 Pro Tip: For the best baseball experience, look for tickets to an Angels versus Dodgers game to see passionate Los Angeles residents torn between their city’s two baseball teams.

Newport Beach

Take a stroll on the Newport Pier during the day and light a bonfire on the beach at night.

🏠 Population: 86,694 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Newport Beach on Booking

Newport Beach is one of the most popular Orange County beaches. From hundreds of eateries to incredible nightlife and beautiful beaches, there are so many fun things to do in Newport.

There are two main piers in Newport Beach, the Newport Pier and the Balboa Pier. Ruby’s Diner at the end of the Balboa Pier is known for their tasty milkshakes and burgers!

Although dogs aren’t allowed on the beach in Newport, they are allowed on the walkway next to the beach. Don’t forget to bring a volleyball and firewood to enjoy the beach’s free amenities.

Irvine

Explore the Irvine Spectrum’s shops and attractions for a fun day under the sun.

🏠 Population: 313,685 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Irvine on Booking

Irvine is a quickly growing city in Orange County, popular for its safe residential areas, proximity to beaches, and booming biotech industry. There’s also a major university, UC Irvine, which adds to the city’s young feel.

Irvine is a great city to visit in Orange County if you love shopping. This city features the Irvine Spectrum, a shopping mecca with boutiques, restaurants, and many lounge areas. It’s one of the best malls in Southern California.

If you’re looking for a more relaxing day away from the shopping crowds, then the University of California, Irvine Arboretum offers 12 acres of native and international plants. It is one of the best free things to do in Irvine.

Santa Barbara

A Mediterranean-style city with upscale restaurants and a historic mission.

🏠 Population: 90,911 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Santa Barbara on Booking

Santa Barbara offers a large coastline with some of the best southern California beaches and perfect weather year-round. Enjoy the downtown Mediterranean-style stucco buildings and upscale boutiques of this Southern California beach town.

Often referred to as “Queen of the Missions,” Old Santa Barbara Mission dates back to 1786 and features a historic museum and peaceful chapel. Visit the Old Santa Barbara Mission to learn more about the city’s culture and history.

After a day of sightseeing and swimming, Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. awaits! Unwind with an ice-cold beer and take in the beautiful beach scenery.

👉 Pro Tip: Renting a car is the best way to see Santa Barbara, but if you’re up for something a little more active, then this bike tour is also a great option.

Sacramento

California’s state capital, with diverse food, art, sports, and music.

🏠 Population: 528,001 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Sacramento on Booking

California’s capital city dates back to the Gold Rush era. Now, Sacramento is the political hub of California and a cultural hotspot. 

Sacramento is a rapidly growing city with affordable housing prices for California. It is also one of California’s last urban farming communities. The city’s diversity is reflected in the food, art, and music culture.

Downtown Sacramento, although small, has walkable streets, leafy parks, and easily accessible public transportation. Adults and children both love the Coin-Op, an 80s-themed arcade, and the California State Capitol Museum.

Huntington Beach

Watch the pups play at the Huntington Dog Beach where the U.S. Open of Surfing is held every year.

🏠 Population: 199,778 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Huntington Beach on Booking

This Orange County coastal city is known as “Surf City USA.” One of the world’s largest surf competitions, the U.S. Open, is held at the Huntington Beach Pier every year and is a favorite event for all visitors. 

Besides surfing, you’ll find lots of interesting activities in Huntington Beach. Visit the Huntington Beach Art Center or take a hike around Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve for some off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Only a 5-minute drive from downtown Huntington, Huntington Dog Beach is well worth the drive. It’s one of the only nearby beaches that allows pets!

Santa Ana

Visit the Santa Ana Zoo or one of many museums for prime entertainment.

🏠 Population: 308,189 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Santa Ana on Booking

Santa Ana is a densely populated major city in Southern California. It is home to the Santa Ana Zoo, one of the best zoos in the region.

If you’re a live music connoisseur, then you must check out The Observatory, situated in the heart of downtown. There are two performing stages inside, a small one for up-and-coming artists and a larger one for established performers.

The Discovery Cube Orange County is a great museum to bring your kids to. There are hands-on science exhibits suited for children that will entertain them for hours. The Discovery Cube is open from 10 am-5 pm every day.

Palm Springs

The most popular California desert city with beautiful views of towering palm trees and gorgeous SoCal mountains.

🏠 Population: 48,390 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Palm Springs on Booking

Palm Springs may not be the largest city in California, but it is one of the most popular vacation spots. Many celebrities opt for an under-the-radar escape to Palm Springs from the hectic Los Angeles atmosphere.

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to the San Jacinto visitor center is one of the main attractions in Palm Springs. Visitors also wait until the summer heat cools down to browse between local art booths at the Thursday night farmers market.

All the best places to stay in Palm Springs offer beautiful views of towering palm trees and gorgeous SoCal mountains. Palm Springs is also close to Joshua Tree National Park, the professional tennis tournament at Indian Wells, and the annual Coachella Music Festival.

Riverside

Visit the Mission Inn during winter to see the famous festival of lights.

🏠 Population: 320,764 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Riverside on Booking

Home to some of the top things to do in the Inland Empire, Riverside is only 60 miles east of Los Angeles. There is an assortment of activities, fine dining, and entertainment venues to keep you occupied during your trip to Riverside.

Most people visit Riverside in the winter for the Mission Inn Festival of Lights. The hotel’s display of lights is the best in the Inland Empire and offers great Christmas photo opportunities.

Riverside also hosts the Mount Rubidoux hike, the best hike in town! The 3.2-mile loop is a Riverside landmark with views of the whole city from the top.

Long Beach

One of the most populated beaches in California famous for being close to Hollywood.

🏠 Population: 462,081 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Long Beach on Booking

Located in Los Angeles County, Long Beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in California. It is famous for its port for Catalina Island, proximity to downtown LA, and great downtown nightlife. 

Visit 2nd Street for the best bars and restaurants in Long Beach. Only one block from the beachfront, this is where you can find most Long Beach locals on the weekends. 4th Street has adorable vintage and roller skate shops and shouldn’t be missed if you like shopping.

Long Beach also hosts annual events like the One Love Cali Reggae Fest every summer and the Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor horror festival every Halloween season. 

San Marcos

A residential town in San Diego County known for its great weather and many outdoor activities.

🏠 Population: 94,833 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in San Marcos on Booking

San Marcos is in San Diego’s North County, only 40 minutes from downtown San Diego. The city is a small residential town that is known for its great weather year-round and its many outdoor activities. 

Some of the best things to do in San Marcos include visiting some of San Diego’s top breweries, kayaking or paddleboarding on Lake San Marcos, and strolling around the San Marcos Farmers’ Market.

Double Peak Park offers great exercise while on vacation. You can walk, run, or bike the trails of the park. More adventurous visitors can even hike to the 1,700-foot summit of Double Peak.

Ventura

One of the most underrated California beach towns.

🏠 Population: 109,527 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Ventura on Booking

Northwest of LA, Ventura is a coastal city with a beautiful main street and incredible surf. Exciting things to do in Ventura include relaxing on the sand, swimming in the ocean, kayaking, surfing, and paddle boarding.

You can also rent a boat from Ventura Harbor and cruise the ocean looking for whales or a golden sunrise out on the water.

There are plenty of art studios in the area and a musical arts theater for you to enjoy performing arts classics. If you prefer a more adult-friendly nightlife scene, hit the bars and clubs on the main street for a night to remember.

Mission Basilica San Buenaventura, on Ventura’s main street, is open to the public every day from 6 am-5 pm and will entertain the whole family. Visit the mission’s botanical gardens and historic museum that dates back to 1782.

Temecula

The most popular place for wine tasting in Southern California.

🏠 Population: 111,752 | 📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Temecula on Booking

Located in Riverside County, Temecula is part of Southern California’s Inland Empire. The main attractions in Temecula are centered around wine, but there are also things to do with the whole family.

You can fly among the birds in a sunrise or sunset hot air balloon ride over the vineyards. Or, go horseback riding through the rolling Temecula hills. Explore Old Town Temecula, one of the best places to stay for weekend farmers markets, country western accommodation, and locally-owned bars and restaurants.

Visitors 21 years old and over can enjoy Pechanga Resort & Casino. Get ready for a night of poker, blackjack, food, and entertainment at this 24-hour Temecula casino.

FAQs About the Best Cities in California

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Thanks for reading this list of the best cities in California. If you’re looking for specific things to do, check out this list of the best things to do in California. Enjoy California’s cities!